SEED PRODUCTION

1. Seed – Definition
   A seed is a mature, viable ovule containing an embryo capable of producing a new plant under favourable conditions.
2. Importance of Quality Seed
   Quality seed contributes nearly a 20–25% increase in crop yield and ensures uniform growth and better productivity.
3. Seed Production – Meaning
   Seed production is the systematic multiplication of genetically pure seeds under controlled conditions.
4. Objectives of Seed Production
   It aims to maintain genetic purity, high germination percentage, and physical quality of seeds.
5. Types of Seeds
   Major classes include nucleus seed, breeder seed, foundation seed, and certified seed.
6. Nucleus Seed
   Nucleus seed is the original seed of a variety maintained by the plant breeder to preserve genetic identity.
7. Breeder Seed
   Breeder seed is produced from nucleus seed under the supervision of the breeder and is the source of foundation seed.
8. Foundation Seed
   Foundation seed is produced from breeder seed and used for large-scale production of certified seed.
9. Certified Seed
   Certified seed is produced from foundation seed and supplied to farmers for commercial cultivation.
10. Seed Replacement Rate (SRR)
    SRR indicates the percentage of area sown using certified or quality seed in a cropping season.
11. Genetic Purity
    Genetic purity refers to the trueness of a seed variety in maintaining its original characteristics.
12. Isolation Distance
    Isolation distance is the minimum distance maintained between seed crops to prevent genetic contamination.
13. Roguing
    Roguing is the removal of off-type, diseased, or unwanted plants from seed fields to maintain purity.
14. Field Inspection
    Regular field inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with seed certification standards.
15. Seed Certification Agencies
    Seed certification is carried out by State Seed Certification Agencies under the Seeds Act, 1966.
16. Seed Processing
    Seed processing involves cleaning, grading, treating, and packing seeds to improve quality and storability.
17. Seed Treatment
    Seed treatment protects seeds from seed-borne and soil-borne diseases and improves germination.
18. Seed Testing
    Seed testing evaluates germination, purity, moisture content, and seed health before certification.
19. Germination Percentage
    Germination percentage indicates the proportion of seeds capable of producing normal seedlings.
20. Seed Storage
    Proper storage maintains seed viability by controlling temperature, humidity, and moisture.
21. Factors Affecting Seed Longevity
    Moisture content, temperature, seed maturity, and storage conditions affect seed longevity.
22. Hybrid Seed Production
    Hybrid seed production exploits heterosis to achieve higher yield and better crop performance.
23. Role of Seed Corporations
    Public and private seed corporations ensure the timely availability of quality seeds to farmers.
24. Seed Village Programme
    This programme promotes local seed production to enhance seed availability and reduce dependency.
25. Seed Production and NABARD
    NABARD supports seed production through credit, infrastructure development, and rural institutions.